Ex-Renault chief claims Max Verstappen ‘ruined’ the F1 world championship in 2023

Max Verstappen had a record breaking win percentage of 86.36% in 2023 season.

Ex-Renault chief claims Max Verstappen ‘ruined’ the F1 world championship in 2023

Max Verstappen at the Mexican GP (Via IMAGO)

Flavio Briatore, former Renault sporting director, recently shared his thoughts on the 2023 Formula 1 season, expressing concerns about the overwhelming dominance of Max Verstappen and Red Bull. Verstappen celebrated a historic season, securing his third World Drivers’ Championship with an unprecedented 19 victories out of 22 races, setting a new record for single-season dominance.

Verstappen’s 2023 season witnessed ruthless domination, marked by 21 podium finishes and an unprecedented 10 consecutive wins. Finishing with a remarkable 575 points, he held a substantial 290-point lead over Sergio Perez. Breaking records all through the season, he won 19 wins some by margins exceeding 20 seconds, Verstappen affirmed his position as the third most successful driver in terms of wins.

He acknowledged Red Bull’s formidable advantage, emphasizing that Verstappen’s extraordinary prowess and seamless connection with his car set him apart from the competition. Speaking to Auto Sprint, as quoted by SoyMotor.com, Briatore didn’t mince his words, stating;

Unfortunately, Max Verstappen ruined the world championship a bit. I hope there is a little more excitement next year because if not, it won't be fun anymore.

The former Renault chief commended Verstappen’s skill but stressed the need for more competition to elevate the spectacle of the sport;

The Red Bull team is extremely strong, and Max Verstappen is not doing anything wrong. He is an extraordinary pilot. Max Verstappen is really one with his car. I hope there will be more excitement next year.

Flavio Briatore hopes that Ferrari catch up to Red Bull and Max Verstappen in 2024

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Briatore expressed hope for increased competitiveness from Ferrari, the team he passionately supports. Ferrari announced a significant revolution in its 2023 car and will unveil it on February 13. Briatore’s wish is that Ferrari can at least compete consistently with Red Bull, providing fans with a thrilling championship battle.

Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc, at Las Vegas post race conference
Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc, at the Las Vegas post-race conference (Credits: Autosport)
I hope for all Italians that Ferrari can at least compete because winning a world championship will continue to be very difficult.

He nostalgically referenced Ferrari’s past successes and hinted at the potential for a revival under the guidance of Frederic Vasseur, suggesting that a French influence might reignite the team’s former glory.

As Formula 1 enthusiasts anticipate the 2024 season, Briatore’s words call for increased competition and excitement. Whether Ferrari can rise to the challenge and break Red Bull’s dominance remains to be seen, but Briatore’s optimism provides hope for a more thrilling championship in the upcoming year.

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